Haven't self harmed for 6 weeks but still depressed

[Dangerous Dave]

I have managed 41 days without self harm. At times it has been very difficult. The last two weeks, I've felt down a lot. I am disturbed by dreams in which I've self harmed and been sent home from my volunteering placement.
I should be happy, working in the garden all day and having some sense of purpose. At the moment, I can't get hold of anyone else on the internal phone system for some reason. I find evenings particularly difficult. Sometimes, the only reason I haven't self harmed is because I don't want to be sent home, where I'll feel even worse (my parents wind me up without meaning to/ realising they're doing it, which makes it even worse).
Do you know any ways to boost my mood.
Also, I need some medical advice. I think I might have been bitten by a spider on the leg. There is quite a large red, swollen area. I am thinking maybe I should get it checked out, but then I don't want anyone else to think I've self harmed again when I haven't, thus send me home.

[Ds.]

I dont really know much about first aid but maybe you should get it looked at...
Well done for 41 days :) i just try n stay as busy as i can when im trying not to harm, depends what you like doing. for me its jumping around to some good music or snowboarding when i can

[one_step_closer]

Very well done with the 41 days, build on the things that have helped you through. Do you enjoy your voluntary placement? Are you able to work more hours? Stay safe and take care, you're doing really well. I'm here if you need anything.

[crazykat]

First of all on making it through 41 days without self harming that is an awesome achievement. You really seem to love your placement, so was wondering do you think it might help if you did a few more hours? What other things do/did you enjoy? Sometimes doing things we love can be a bit of boost to our mood. Also doing things to look after ourselves like making sure we regularly shower, eat a balanced diet and get excercise can help to. Excercise in particular can help as it releases endorphins which make us feel good. I know when you are feeling down some of these things can be hard to do but try and at least do a little bit each day if you can. Best of luck. Take care
Kat xxx

[Dangerous Dave]

Okay, just an update. The bite wasn't serious. I just had some cream on it and it went down. My work involves working in the garden and my motor skills leave something to be desired, so I find I get quite a few minor injuries. It can be hard as some of them remind me of my self harm marks, but I just bang into my head that I didn't self harm, it wasn't my fault I got that mark, etc.
My mood has slightly improved since last time. I'm on 54 days no deliberate self harm now and don't feel the urge at the moment. I think the test will be after Christmas, when my placement has finished. My placement finishes on December 18th and I have to go live back with my parents for a bit.

[Outcast Angel]

Well done!! You're doing brilliantly, 54 days is great. Sounds like you're enjoying your placement - can anything else come from it? Can it be extended or lead to something more permanent? Are you not looking forward to living with your parents again?
Take care
C x